People across Huntingdonshire came together to pay tributes to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, who died on Friday, April 9.
Huntingdon mayor, Cllr Karl Webb, laid flowers on the Market Square on Friday to pay tribute. The town hall and bandstand were also lit up in memory of the Duke's passing. In an official statement on behalf of the town council, Cllr Webb said: "It is with great sadness that we have learnt of the death of the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip who supported his country over many decades with the upmost dedication and distinction. He was a much-loved member of our monarchy and will be sorely missed.
On behalf of the people of Huntingdon, I wish to convey our deepest sympathy and thoughts to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the rest of the royal family at this terribly sad time.
On the Friday following the announcement, the bells were tolled 99 times from All Saints Church and St Mary’s Church in Huntingdon The town council opened an online book of condolences, the Union Flag was lowered to half-mast, and will remain there until 8am on April 18, following the Duke's funeral.
Cllr Webb has confirmed he had sent a letter of condolence to Buckingham Palace on behalf of the town of Huntingdon. The jewel on the mayor’s chain of office is covered in a black pouch so only the chain is seen. Photographs of HRH have been placed in the foyer of the town hall and Coneygear Centre.
Ramsey Town Council issued an online statement, which read: “Ramsey Town Council would like to express its deepest condolences to Her Majesty the Queen, members of the royal family and the extended members of the royal household. Prince Philip dedicated his life to serving the nation, in particular supporting the Queen. He has been patron, president or member of more than 750 organisations, of which, the Duke of Edinburgh Award may be best known."
MORE: Obituary: Prince Philip - a life of service
St Neots mayor, Cllr Stephen Ferguson said: “It is with deep sadness to hear the news of the death of The Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip, who served and supported his country with the utmost dedication and distinction. A much-loved member of our monarchy who will be sorely missed.
“As a mark of respect our union flags will be flown at half-mast at our council offices and town greens.”
St Neots Parish Church have also paid tribute by tolling the bells 99 times just after 1pm in remembrance of the Duke.
In an online post the church said: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Our deepest sympathies are with the Royal Family at this time.”
Cambridgeshire Police Chief Constable, Nick Dean, said: “His Royal Highness was a naval war hero who bravely served this country through the military and then for more than 70 years as the husband of our monarch, Queen Elizabeth.
“Prince Philip was an example of how to conduct your life in service of the public and showed huge dedication to both Queen and country. His contribution to this country will never be forgotten."
Public-React-To-The-Death-Of-Prince-Phillip-Outside-Buckingh
Huntingdonshire District Council (HDC) also paid tribute, executive leader, Cllr Ryan Fuller said: "I am deeply saddened by news that His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh has died at the age of 99.
"Our thoughts and sympathies are with the royal family who have not only lost a respected public figure but a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
"The whole nation mourns the passing of Prince Philip who lived an extraordinary life – from a distinguished career in the Royal Navy during the Second World War, to his Duke of Edinburgh scheme work with young people, and as the longest-serving royal consort in British history.
"He dedicated his life to the service of our nation and to Her Majesty The Queen. On behalf of all those across Huntingdonshire, I extend our thoughts and condolences to Her Majesty The Queen and all members of the royal family."
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